Plum Chef Retro-Style 20 Bar Espresso Machine with Milk Frother, ESE Pod Compatible, Pressure Gauge, 54 oz Removable Water Tank, Ideal for Home Barista, Beige
$145.00
In stock
- Retro style meets 20 bar pressure for authentic espresso.
- Dual use with ESE pods or ground coffee for flexibility.
- Powerful steam wand creates silky microfoam for lattes.
- Built-in pressure gauge ensures perfect extraction every time.
- Large 54 oz water tank brews multiple servings without refill.
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Plum chef Retro-Style Espresso Machine Review — 20 Bar Pressure with Milk Review
The Plum chef Retro-Style Espresso Machine brings a vintage aesthetic to your countertop while delivering a modern 20-bar high-pressure extraction system. Designed for home baristas who appreciate both form and function, this semi-automatic machine promises rich espresso with a thick crema. It includes a 360-degree rotatable steam wand for milk frothing, a 54 oz removable water tank, and compatibility with ESE pods. Whether you're a beginner exploring espresso or a seasoned enthusiast wanting a backup machine, the Plum chef offers a complete starter bundle with portafilter, filters, and pod adapter. At around $145, it aims to balance affordability with features typically found in higher-priced machines.
Product Overview
Semi-automatic machines like this one require you to grind, tamp, and start the brew, but they reward you with control over the final shot. The Plum chef's 850-watt heating system and 20-bar pump are standard for entry-level espresso machines, though real-world performance can vary. The machine stands 12.3 inches tall with an 11-inch square footprint, fitting comfortably under most cabinets. Its 54 oz water tank is made from food-grade PP plastic and is removable for easy filling and cleaning. The included steam wand rotates 360 degrees, allowing you to froth milk from any angle, but it lacks the dry steam of professional machines—multiple reviews note it tends to sputter water. The portafilter accepts both single and double shot baskets, and the included ESE pod adapter opens up convenient single-serve options. Cleaning is straightforward: the drip tray and water tank lift out for washing. The retro beige color and chrome accents give it a mid-century look that stands out against mass-produced stainless steel machines. However, the metal and ABS plastic construction feels solid but not premium. Overall, this machine is best suited for those who value aesthetics and are willing to accept some quirks in exchange for a lower price point.
Key Features
20-Bar High-Pressure Extraction
- ✓Professional-grade 20-bar pump intended to produce rich crema
- ✓Extracts full flavor from both ground coffee and ESE pods
- ✓Pressure gauge on the front lets you monitor extraction visually
Adjustable Single & Double Shots
- ✓Choose between single or double espresso with the push of a button
- ✓Manual stop option gives you control over shot volume
- ✓Pre-infusion function helps bloom coffee grounds for even extraction
360° Rotatable Steam Wand
- ✓Articulates fully for easy positioning of milk pitchers
- ✓Creates microfoam for cappuccinos, lattes, and flat whites
- ✓Swivel action makes cleaning the wand tip simpler
Removable 54 oz Water Tank
- ✓Large 1.6-liter capacity brews multiple cups before refilling
- ✓Food-grade PP plastic ensures no metallic taste
- ✓Detaches for easy filling at the sink without moving the entire machine
ESE Pod Compatibility
- ✓Adapters included for convenient single-serve espresso pods
- ✓Reduces mess and speeds up morning routines
- ✓Works with most standard ESE pods found in grocery stores
Complete Starter Bundle
- ✓Includes portafilter, single and double shot baskets, ESE pod adapter, and measuring scoop
- ✓User manual provides step-by-step instructions for first use
- ✓All essentials are in the box—no additional purchases needed to start brewing
Build & Materials
The Plum chef Retro-Style Espresso Machine combines a beige ABS plastic body with chrome-accented metal components, creating a nostalgic mid-century look. The machine measures 11 inches wide, 11 inches deep, and 12.3 inches tall, weighing 11 pounds—stable enough on a counter but light enough to move. The portafilter is made of chrome-plated metal with a wooden-effect handle, adding to the vintage appeal. The removable 54 oz water tank sits at the rear and clicks into place with a simple locking mechanism. The drip tray is also removable and features a plastic grate that hides the drip tray insert. Overall build quality is adequate for the price, though some reviewers note the pod holder can loosen over time. The control panel uses three buttons for power, single shot, and double shot, plus a dial for steam. The pressure gauge is a nice visual addition, but one reviewer reports it does not function accurately.
Shot Quality
Reviewers agree that when everything works, the Plum chef pulls espresso with good flavor and a decent layer of crema. The 20-bar pump is capable of extracting rich shots from both ground coffee and ESE pods, though the pressure gauge appears to be more decorative than functional—one reviewer explicitly states it doesn't work. The machine tends to continue brewing until the water tank is empty if not manually stopped, which can lead to over-extraction and bitter coffee. Milk frothing is a weak point: the steam wand often sputters hot water rather than dry steam, making it difficult to achieve the velvety microfoam needed for latte art. Additionally, the machine is notably loud during operation—a common trade-off at this price point. The pod holder issue mentioned in one review—where it unseats itself during brewing—suggests durability concerns. Overall, shot quality is acceptable for a beginner machine, but consistency and longevity are questioned.
Pros and Cons
What Works
- ✓Rich espresso with decent crema when properly dialed in
- ✓Retro beige design stands out and fits vintage kitchens
- ✓Complete starter bundle includes all needed accessories
- ✓ESE pod compatibility offers convenient single-serve option
- ✓Removable water tank and drip tray simplify cleaning
- ✓20-bar pump provides sufficient pressure for espresso extraction
- ✓Affordable price point for entry-level home baristas
What Doesn't
- ✗Pod holder can unseat during brewing, causing leaks or explosions
- ✗Pressure gauge often inaccurate or non-functional
- ✗Steam wand sputters hot water instead of dry steam
- ✗Machine continues brewing until water tank empties if not stopped manually
- ✗Loud operation may be disruptive in quiet environments
- ✗Pressure buildup can cause burnt coffee if left on after brewing
The Verdict
The Plum chef Retro-Style Espresso Machine is a visually charming entry-level option for those who want a vintage-looking machine without a vintage price tag. It delivers acceptable espresso when working correctly, but component reliability—especially the pod holder and steam wand—falls short of expectations. The pressure gauge seems ornamental, and the machine's tendency to keep brewing after the cup is full requires constant attention. For the price, it offers a complete starter bundle, but buyers should be prepared for potential quirks. If you prioritize aesthetics and don't mind tinkering, it might be worth a try, but serious espresso enthusiasts will likely want to upgrade sooner rather than later.
Who Is This For?
Beginner Home Baristas
The complete starter bundle and simple button controls lower the learning curve for espresso newcomers.
Retro Design Enthusiasts
The beige body and chrome accents offer a unique vintage look that stands out from typical stainless steel machines.
ESE Pod Users
The included ESE pod adapter allows convenient single-serve brewing with minimal cleanup.
Budget-Conscious Coffee Lovers
At $145, it undercuts many competitors while still providing a 20-bar pump and frother.
Is It Worth It?
What You Get
- 20-bar pump for espresso extraction
- Removable 54 oz water tank
- 360° rotatable steam wand
- Complete bundle: portafilter, baskets, ESE adapter, scoop
- Retro beige design with pressure gauge
What You Pay
$145 at full price (may vary by retailer)
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Plum chef espresso machine work with ground coffee?
How do I clean the steam wand?
Why is my machine not pumping water?
Is the pressure gauge accurate?
Can I use any ESE pods with this machine?
How loud is this machine during operation?
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Product Specifications
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